Ritz-Carlton to Launch Luxury Cruise Ships

Ritz-Carlton Hotel announced plans for its luxury cruise line, with 3 ships aimed to set sea starting late 2019.

Positioned between a small ocean liner and a private superyacht, the ships will accommodate "the 1% of global travelers.".

With bigger rooms, common space for passengers to relax onboard, and more dining options, the new Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection was designed in an attempt to defy the cruise ship stereotypes.

"This unique combination of yachting and cruising will usher in a new way of luxury travel for guests seeking to discover the world," said President and Chief Operating Officer of Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Herve Humler, in the press release.

Trip itineraries will feature less time at sea, as well as more time to explore smaller ports. The cruise vessels will explore New England, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean.

Rooms will all be called suites and there will be 149 suites, accommodating up to 298 guests — and a couple of 138m2 duplex penthouse suites.

Guests will be able to eat whenever they wish with no set meal times. During each cruise local talent (guest lectures, chefs and artists) will join for an entertainment throughout the voyage.

Shipbuilder is Barreras Shipyard (Vigo Spain). Vessel's length is 620 ft (189 m). The first of the 3 ships is scheduled to set sail in late 2019.